Around 60 employees at the Avon Mixing Plant, on the West Wiltshire Trading Estate in Westbury, could be affected after Avon Rubber revealed it might have to resort to closing the centre if a buyer is not found.

With reference to selling the centre, Fiona Stewart, a company spokesman, said: "If that is the only option that is left available to us then that is what we will have to do for the sake of the business.

"It was incurring quite severe losses and particularly over the last 18 months we have been very much aware of it."

In an official statement Avon Rubber said: "In May 2006 and at our Interim Results announcement on 17 May 2007 we referred to our continuing efforts to eliminate losses in Avon Mixing, Westbury.

"Despite significant operational improvements and cost savings we have continued to incur unacceptable losses in this business.

"Having explored all other options to address this unsustainable situation, Avon has now appointed advisors who are actively committed to selling Avon Mixing on our behalf. However, should the efforts to sell the Avon Mixing business prove unsuccessful the company's intention is to close this facility.

"Avon remains committed to being a world class materials specialist of polymer based products. In the UK we retain our extensive knowledge, skills and experience of rubber compounding through our materials development centre in Westbury and through our manufacturing excellence at the Hampton Park West production plant in Melksham.

Commenting on the decision, Terry Stead, chief executive of Avon Rubber said: "The group's strategy is to continue developing a strong market position with a balanced portfolio of businesses in the sectors of protection, engineered fabrications, and dairy.

"All of these businesses have been previously identified and are well positioned for growth."